Our Pre-Prep 1 (Nursery) is split into two delightful classes: Chicks for our rising 3-year-olds and Owls for our rising 4-year-olds. Each class enjoys a bright, spacious room that opens directly onto its own enclosed outdoor area, surrounded by beautiful meadows and woodland—a setting that inspires exploration and a connection with nature.

Our experienced team of teachers ensures that every child settles in quickly and feels secure, enabling them to take their first confident steps in learning. The curriculum is based on the Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) framework, providing a balanced mix of adult-led and child-initiated activities.

Guided by the EYFS framework, we focus on the following key developmental areas for these early years:

• Communication and Language:
  Through storytelling, songs, and interactive conversations, children begin to develop essential language skills. They learn to express their thoughts, engage in dialogue, and build the vocabulary that will serve as the foundation for all future learning.

• Personal, Social and Emotional Development:
  In our nurturing environment, children learn to understand their own feelings and those of others. They build confidence, develop positive relationships, and learn important social skills such as sharing, taking turns, and cooperating with peers.

• Physical Development:
  With plenty of opportunities for active play both indoors and outdoors, children enhance their fine and gross motor skills. From climbing and running to manipulating small objects during creative play, they develop coordination and a love for physical activity.

• Literacy:
  Early exposure to letters, sounds, and stories fosters a love for reading and writing. Through engaging activities, children begin to recognise letters and words, laying the groundwork for future literacy skills.

• Mathematics:
  Through playful, hands-on activities, children are introduced to basic mathematical concepts such as numbers, shapes, and patterns. This playful exploration makes learning maths fun and accessible.

• Understanding the World:
  By engaging in nature walks, simple experiments, and interactive experiences in our Forest School, children explore their surroundings and develop an early awareness of the world. They learn about different environments, communities, and the wonders of nature.

• Expressive Arts and Design:
  Creative expression is at the heart of our curriculum. Whether through drawing, painting, music, or imaginative play, children are encouraged to express themselves artistically, nurturing their individuality and creativity.

Pre-Prep 1 is not just about learning; it’s about fostering a sense of wonder and belonging in a warm, family-like setting. We develop each child’s unique potential, ensuring that their first steps into education are filled with curiosity, confidence, and joy. We make full use of the School’s beautiful grounds for outdoor learning and physical exercise and share its extensive facilities including the Saloon, the Library, the Sports Hall and the Performance Studio.

"The contribution of teaching is excellent in the EYFS"

_{- ISI Inspection Report}